ESPN appears determined to keep “Inside the NBA” on the air after Ernie Johnson’s retirement, and the network could turn to one of its own big names to take over the show.
The network intends to keep “Inside the NBA” as its flagship NBA program even after Johnson departs, according to Eli Kronenberg and Michael McCarthy of Front Office Sports. Assuming they do so, ESPN could consider Scott Van Pelt as a dark horse candidate to replace Johnson.
The choice ultimately may come down to whether Van Pelt is interested. He is not based in Atlanta where the show is, and it would be another addition to his already hefty workload. However, he is one of the few who might be able to take over the role fairly seamlessly.
Johnson has said he hopes the show continues even after his retirement. Turner colleague Adam Lefkoe has been frequently mentioned as another potential replacement.
If ESPN does keep the show on air, they may have to replace another big name next season as well.
